Plum Creek facility back up and running after fire

Employees were all safely evacuated, with no reported injuries. An investigation determined that a mechanical failure caused the fire. There is also an estimated $8 million to $10 million worth of damage at the plant.

“We are very thankful that all the local fire and safety departments rallied to protect the people working at the facility," said VP northwest resources and manufacturing Tom Ray.

The No. 2 production line, where the company makes between 1/10th and 1/2-inch continuous-press fiberboard, officially restarted June 30. The No. 1 production line, which produces up to 1 1/2-inch fiberboard, will be back in full gear this week.

Plum Creek had continued shipping existing product to customers during the three-week closure. Additionally, no employee lost a day of work, with many assigned tasks to help with the recovery effort.

Ray added that Plum Creek will donate $15,000 to the response units that helped successfully contain the fire. “Their work is greatly appreciated and we hope these funds support the important work they provide every day to our community,” he said.